WTN: 2 Graves: Haut-Bailly 1978 and 1985; Magence Blanc 2004
Posted: Sat Jun 24, 2006 3:46 pm
Mid summer partying was aided by some nice Graves. The red, though Peppercorn says that the 79 is better, was sublime. The white seemed a nice, if rather too young, Graves as well - it would be interesting to see what a few years do this wine.
Posted from CellarTracker
- 1978 Château Haut-Bailly - France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan (6/24/2006) no abv, c.60 euros from http://www.belgiumwinewatchers.com
A lightish red, some orange at rim. The nose is clearly evolved, but not at all over the top and has admirable complexity: sweet, deliciously fruity with red berries, earth, herbs, a touch of cigar and a hint of that singed or swamp-like scent that I get with older Merlot. But apart from that small scent, this seems more Burgundian that Claret - so much so that given blind, I would almost certainly have said old Burgundy! The palate is also, IMO, at peak now with sweet fruit, not at all drying despite still being a little tannic, lovely acidity, lovely balance and an interminable aftertaste. Lovely! - 2004 Château Magence - France, Bordeaux, Graves (6/24/2006) 12% 12,15 euros from our abysmal monopoly, Alko
Very light gold. The nose is on the first day very Sauvignonny with grass, blackcurrant leaves and a slight minerality, and a hint of oak. On the second day, Sémillon's honey is better in evidence and the nose is more harmonious and pleasant with a delightful cranberry component. The palate is nicely acidic, not very obviously fruity but still balanced, long and slightly mineral. Not a special wine in any way, but a really nice cheap wine.
Posted from CellarTracker